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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    What foods trigger the symptoms of Crohn's disease?

    Related Topics
    Crohn's Disease & Ulcerative Colitis Digestive Health
    I am curious as to which foods I should avoid eating with my condition..
    • 2 answers
    • Linda Hodge
    • Prof Andrew Day
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    Linda Hodge

    Dietitian

    I am Accredited Practising Dietitian with a passion for helping people who suffer from food intolerance. I have 25 years of experience in this area … View Profile

    In an active phase which is accompanied by diarrhoea, a low fibre diet will help to reduce the diarrhoea and irritation of the bowel wall.  However, in an inactive phase, a high fibre diet is recommended to try and achieve normal, soft but formed stools.  

    You should avoid foods which you find will cause worsening symptoms.  The specific foods which trigger symptoms depends very much on the individual and there is no list of foods to avoid in Crohn's disease which will suit all people.  

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  • Prof Andrew Day

    Paediatrician

    In children with Crohn disease, the key aspect of diet is ensuring a good well-balanced diet.

    As in adults with this condition, some children will find that they have some symptoms with particular foods. It may be helpful to be careful with these items.

    Low fibre diets may be helpful if there is any suggestion of narrowing (stricture) to avoid symptoms. Often, children will need some extra help to boost up the calories in their diet, especially during the times they are well.

    Sometimes after diagnosis, children may have trouble with diary products (such as when the Crohn disease is affecting the absorption of the milk sugar, lactose). This is usually not long-lasting. If children do have trouble with diary products, they should have a consultation with a dietitian. It is important to make sure that they can get enough calcium in their diet (to help protect and strengthen their bones).

    Diet in chidlren with Crohn disease is an essential part of management of the condition. Crohn disease often impacts on growth and weight gains. Maintaining a good intake is key in ensuring good growth over time.

    Meeting with a dietitian after diagnosis, and then regular review (at least every year) is essential. Careful monitoring of growth follows on from this.


     

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